title: Feedback control of optical beam spatial profiles using thermal lensing.
abstract: A method for active control of the spatial profile of a laser beam using adaptive thermal lensing is described. A segmented electrical heater was used to generate thermal gradients across a transmissive optical element, resulting in a controllable thermal lens. The segmented heater also allows the generation of cylindrical lenses, and provides the capability to steer the beam in both horizontal and vertical planes. Using this device as an actuator, a feedback control loop was developed to stabilize the beam size and position.
authors.forename: Zhanwei
authors.initials: Z
authors.lastname: Liu
authors.forename: Paul
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Fulda
authors.forename: Muzammil A
authors.initials: MA
authors.lastname: Arain
authors.forename: Luke
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: Williams
authors.forename: Guido
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Mueller
authors.forename: D B
authors.initials: DB
authors.lastname: Tanner
authors.forename: D H
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Reitze